Sheet Metal CAD Designer for Trial Project

Mechanical CAD Designer — Sheet Metal Parts for Vehicle Roof Rack System (Paid Trial, Ongoing Work Available) Project Overview: I'm developing a modular roof rack system for high-roof cargo vans, built from bent sheet steel components (target thickness: 3/16"). The system is designed to be bolt-together and customizable — customers can adjust configurations, add cross bars, and mount accessories (solar panels, awnings, light bars, cargo boxes) using a shared mounting system across all parts. I have hand-drawn sketches with dimensions for three key parts and need a CAD designer to turn them into accurate, manufacturable 3D models. Why this matters for the work: This is a structural, load-bearing product mounted to a moving vehicle at highway speed — not a decorative or low-stakes item. Bend radius, fatigue at fold lines, bolt hole placement relative to bends, and real-world vibration all need to be considered as part of the modeling, not just static appearance. I need someone who will flag design-for-manufacturing concerns proactively, not just execute a sketch literally. Trial Project (start here): Model one bent sheet metal leg bracket — a single flat piece of 3/16" steel with two bend lines, forming an integrated mounting platform and gusset (the platform supports a cross bar; the gusset braces the platform against the leg shaft). I'll provide a hand-drawn sketch with dimensions (front view, flat/unfolded layout, and side view). Trial deliverables: STEP file (3D sheet metal model, not just a static solid) DXF file (accurate unfolded flat pattern, suitable for sending to a laser cutting service for quotes) Brief written notes on any DFM concerns — for example, if the specified bend radius is too tight for 3/16" material, or if hole placement is too close to a bend line and should be adjusted Requirements: Experience specifically with sheet metal/bent part design (not just general 3D modeling) — please reference this directly in your proposal Comfortable working from hand-drawn sketches with dimensions, not a finished spec Able to deliver universal file formats (STEP + DXF), not proprietary-only files Automotive, trailer, or outdoor/vehicle equipment design experience is a strong plus Process: An NDA will be required before I share the detailed sketches (this is an early-stage product I'm developing) Please share 1-2 examples of prior sheet metal design work in your proposal, along with your estimated turnaround time and cost for this trial part Beyond the trial: If this first part goes well, there are two more related parts already sketched and ready to go — a corner bracket (connecting the leg to the side rail) and a cross-member mounting bracket — plus ongoing design work as the product develops. I'm looking to build an ongoing working relationship with the right designer, not just a one-off task.